The Heavyweight of Ski Touring: 100 kg of Pure Fun in the Ahrntal
Typically, the world of ski mountaineering is a sport for "gram-counters": carbon skis, ultralight bindings, and athletes for whom every extra ounce makes the ascent a struggle. But in the Ahrntal, the clocks—and the scales—run differently. An event has established itself here that turns the classic image of "lightweight sports" on its head with a wink: the legendary "100 kg Ski Touring Race."
Equal Opportunities for All – The Scale Doesn't Lie
The concept is as simple as it is brilliant: to trade hyper-competitive ambition for a healthy dose of community spirit, every participant must weigh in at a minimum of 100 kilograms at the starting line. It’s not just body weight that’s measured, but the total "combat weight," including skis, boots, and backpack.
Those who don’t quite reach the mark naturally (or through heavy gear) needn't despair: the weight difference is simply made up by stuffing sandbags into their backpack. For the ladies, a charming 70-kilogram limit applies. This ensures that victory isn't decided by genetic predisposition, but by pure strength and the iron will to haul the load up the mountain.
A Night Spectacle at the Klausberg
As dusk falls over the Ahrntal, the Klausberg transforms into a shimmering arena. Only the beams of headlamps light the way as the field of ski tourers sets off to conquer the altitude toward the mountain station at 1,850 meters. What began as a small local idea has long since evolved into an international attraction. Participants travel from Germany and many other countries specifically to be part of this "weighty" community.
Sporting Spirit Meets Alpine Idyll
Although the focus is on fun and "Gaudi" (a good time), the athletic performance of this night race is not to be underestimated. Nevertheless, the atmosphere after crossing the finish line is defined by laughter and the pride of having successfully lugged those sandbags to the top.
With its impressive 80 three-thousand-meter peaks, the Ahrntal offers one of the most spectacular backdrops for ski tourers worldwide. For those who prefer the classic way, the daytime offers countless routes through pristine powder snow—usually without any sand in the pack, but with the same passion for the mountains.